OC Bay Hopper - Foodie Tour By Boat

Discover Ocean City with the OC Bay Hopper Foodie Tour by Boat

If you’re seeking a way to enjoy Ocean City that mixes excellent food, breathtaking views, and a touch of local charm, the OC Bay Hopper Foodie Tour might just be your ideal outing. For $195 per person, you get a three-hour journey that combines a scenic boat ride with visits to three iconic waterfront restaurants. Guided by Sandy Gillis, a knowledgeable OC enthusiast, you’ll learn about the area’s history and the stories behind each restaurant, all while indulging in delicious bites and refreshing cocktails.

What immediately draws us to this tour is the balance of relaxation and authentic local flavor. It’s perfect for food lovers who want more than just a day at the beach — instead, they want a taste of Ocean City’s vibrant waterfront culinary scene. Two things we especially appreciate are the small group size, which keeps the experience intimate and personalized, and the combination of a boat tour with foodie stops, offering both scenic views and hearty flavors.

A potential consideration? Since the tour is limited to a maximum of five travelers, booking well in advance (often booked 44 days ahead) is wise. Also, the tour’s weather dependency means bad weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling, so checking the forecast is a good idea.

This experience suits travelers who love culinary adventures with a scenic twist, especially those eager to learn about Ocean City’s local hotspots from a knowledgeable guide. It’s particularly well-rated for its delicious food and engaging guide, making it a standout choice for small-group travelers wanting a memorable and flavorful day.

Key Points

Small group intimacy enhances the personalized experience
Combination of boat ride and waterfront dining offers a unique perspective
Guided by Sandy Gillis, a knowledgeable local with a passion for OC
Includes tasting at three popular waterfront restaurants, with delicious food and cocktails
Weather-dependent activity, so check the forecast
Book early to secure your spot, as it is often booked 44 days in advance

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A Closer Look at the OC Bay Hopper Foodie Tour

When we think about how to experience Ocean City, many first imagine beaches and boardwalks. But if you’re craving something more interactive and culturally rich, this boat-based foodie tour offers just that. Over three hours, you’ll glide across the calm waters of OC, visiting three different waterfront restaurants—including favorites like Tailchasers, Fagers Island, and The Green Turtle, depending on your departure point. Each stop promises a mix of appetizers, entrées, and tasty cocktails that showcase the local culinary talent.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at the meeting point on Coastal Highway, where you’ll meet your guide, Sandy, and head out for a scenic boat ride. As you cruise, Sandy will share interesting tidbits about Ocean City’s history and all the fascinating details about the restaurants you’ll visit. The boat ride itself is a relaxing way to see the coastline from a different angle, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the skyline and the shimmering waters.

At each restaurant stop, you’ll get to sample a selection of foods that reflect the local flavors. For example, at Hoopers Crab House you might indulge in fresh crab or seafood bites, while Frog Bar could offer some classic pub fare with a twist. Expect delicious small plates and refreshing cocktails, perfect for a leisurely lunch. The stops are spaced out to give you enough time to enjoy each venue without feeling rushed.

What Makes This Tour Special

One of the standout features of this experience is the combination of sightseeing and culinary discovery. We loved the way the boat ride adds a visual dimension to the day — watching boats sail by, enjoying the breeze, and taking in the coastal scenery. The local knowledge of Sandy elevates the tour, as she fills you in on the history, fun facts, and the story behind each restaurant. This isn’t just a food tasting; it’s a journey through Ocean City’s waterfront culture.

Authentic and Delicious Food

The food reviews highlight very good food as a key highlight. One reviewer mentioned, “Very good food and our tour guide, Jeff, was amazing!” which underscores the quality and enthusiasm of the guides. You’ll enjoy tasty tapas, seafood, and drinks that reflect OC’s seaside vibe. The cocktails are also crafted to complement the food, making this a well-rounded experience for your palate.

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Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of five travelers, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere, allowing for more personal interaction with Sandy and the other participants. We appreciate small-group tours because they feel less rushed and more flexible — perfect for those who want a relaxed, engaging experience.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour starts at noon and lasts approximately 3 hours.
It is suitable for most travelers, with confirmation within 48 hours of booking.
As it is near public transportation, getting to the meeting point should be straightforward for most.
Remember, this is weather-dependent — poor weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling, so keep an eye on the forecast.
The cost of $195 includes food, drinks, and the boat ride, which offers good value for a small, guided experience.

Authentic Experience and Authenticity

What we love most is that this tour offers an authentic slice of Ocean City life. Rather than just visiting tourist hotspots, you get to taste the local flavors and learn about the area firsthand. The stops at well-loved waterfront spots mean you’re sampling what locals and regular visitors alike enjoy, which adds an extra layer of genuine experience.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Most reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the delicious food. One reviewer said, “First time going with my wife and we enjoyed it so much,” emphasizing how engaging and memorable the experience can be. The scenic boat ride combined with tasty bites makes it a great choice for those looking to combine sightseeing with culinary adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This foodie boat tour is great for travelers who:

Want an active, engaging way to explore Ocean City beyond the beach.
Enjoy small-group experiences with personalized attention.
Love seafood and waterfront dining.
Appreciate learning local stories from passionate guides.
Are comfortable with weather-dependent outdoor activities.
Seek a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities to savor food and drinks.

It’s especially well-suited for couples, small groups of friends, or anyone eager to combine scenic views with good eats in a laid-back, friendly environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including boat ride and stops at three restaurants.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the boat ride, all food tastings, and cocktails at each stop.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor boat rides and social dining.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked 44 days in advance, so we recommend booking early to secure your spot.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, there is a full refund if canceled due to poor weather. You can also reschedule or get a different date.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 11703 Coastal Hwy and ends back at the same point.

Are drinks included?
Yes, tasty cocktails are included at each restaurant stop.

Is there a minimum number of travelers?
Yes, the experience requires a minimum number of participants, but the maximum is just five, keeping the group intimate.

What should I bring?
Bring some cash for tips or extra drinks, and dress for outdoor weather — layers are advisable.

Final Thoughts

The OC Bay Hopper Foodie Tour offers a refreshing alternative to simply lounging at the beach. It provides a perfect mix of scenic views, local history, and delicious waterfront fare. Whether you’re a foodie eager to taste fresh seafood or a curious traveler wanting a different perspective of Ocean City, this small-group experience delivers on both quality and intimacy.

The combination of a relaxing boat ride with informative storytelling and delicious sampling makes it a memorable outing. The small group size and personalized guidance ensure you won’t feel lost in the crowd — instead, you’ll leave with a full belly, some good stories, and a deeper appreciation for OC’s waterfront culture.

This tour is best for those willing to invest a bit more for a quality, authentic experience and who enjoy combining sightseeing with food and drinks. Keep in mind the weather dependency and the importance of early booking, and you’re all set for a tasty adventure on the water.